What do IR-A, IR-B, and IR-C mean?

The specifications of two lamps list IR-A for one and IR-C for the other. IR-A, IR-B and IR-C are the three types of Infrared light, classified by wavelength. IR-A ranges from 700 to 1400 nm and penetrates the deepest, which is why it is considered therapeutic light. IR-B (1400 to 3000 nm) and IR-C (3000 nm to 1 mm) remain in the upper layers of the skin and mainly provide warmth and relaxation. Below, you can read about the applications of each type and why making the right choice matters.

Infrared light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum and has longer wavelengths than visible light. It may play an important role in potential health benefits. Think of muscle pain or boosting energy.

There are three types of IR light: IR-A, IR-B and IR-C. But what do IR-A, IR-B and IR-C mean? And which Infrared lamp should you choose? Read it here!

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What does IR-A mean?

Infrared radiation has short, medium and long wavelengths. Another name for short-wave infrared radiation is IR-A. IR-A has the deepest effect on the skin compared with IR-B and IR-C. An IR-A Infrared lamp is therefore also considered therapeutic light.

IR-A ranges from 700 to 1400 nm (nanometers). Short-wave infrared light is closest to visible light. As a result, it has a particularly strong therapeutic effect. It stimulates the mitochondria, leading to increased ATP production and an accelerated recovery process.

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Applications of IR-A

IR-A may help reduce muscle and joint pain and support wound healing. It supports cell renewal and may contribute to pain relief and reducing inflammation. It also stimulates collagen production, blood circulation and skin recovery, which is why it is often used for scars and wrinkles.

The closer the radiation is to visible light, the shorter the wavelengths and the more powerful the radiation.

What does IR-B mean?

IR-B is medium-wave infrared light. It is farther from visible light, which means it has a less deep effect than IR-A. With a wavelength of 1400 to 3000 nm, medium-wave radiation penetrates into the upper dermis.

Applications of IR-B

IR-B is beneficial for blood circulation, sweating and detoxifying the body, for example in the case of viruses.

What does IR-C mean?

IR-C is long-wave infrared light. With a wavelength of 3,000 nm to 1 mm, it has the longest wavelengths of the three. It is almost completely absorbed by the upper layers of the skin: according to the ICNIRP, IR-C does not penetrate beyond the stratum corneum, while IR-A penetrates several millimeters into the tissue. It is therefore primarily a source of heat, not therapeutic light.

Applications of IR-C

IR-C has a positive effect on relaxation, blood circulation and general stress relief. For a cosmetic treatment or effective skin cleansing, an Infrared lamp with IR-C is often sufficient. The heat penetrates the upper layers of the skin, which is enough to open the pores.

This makes it easier to remove dirt trapped in your pores. This radiation is good for the skin, helps promote healthy blood circulation and increases sweating. It is mainly used for relaxation and warmth. This is also the spectrum used by an infrared sauna.

Why is choosing the right type important?

It is important to know which type of infrared light best suits your needs. This allows you to benefit fully from its advantages. An Infrared lamp with IR-A is mainly known for its therapeutic effect. IR-B and IR-C primarily provide warmth and comfort.

Are you unsure whether to choose warmth or light? Then infrared sauna or red light therapy can help you further.